Sinus Disorders

Chronic Sinusitis Treatment & Surgery in Foley & Daphne, AL

What is sinusitis?

Sinusitis, also known as a sinus infection, is a sinus disorder characterized by inflammation of the sinus lining. In healthy sinuses, mucus is able to properly drain through small openings, but when something obstructs this normal drainage or the nose produces an excess amount of mucus, a buildup can occur. As a result, the sinus lining becomes inflamed, leading to numerous unpleasant symptoms. In sinusitis, the blockage and inflammation of the sinus membranes can be infectious or noninfectious.

What is chronic sinusitis?

Chronic sinusitis is defined as a single case of sinusitis with symptoms that last for 12 weeks or longer. Sinusitis is also considered chronic if a patient develops four or more separate cases of sinusitis within a year, with resolution of symptoms in between each episode.

What causes sinusitis?

Sinusitis can be caused by various conditions or factors that lead to blocked sinus openings and/or increased mucus production. Some of the potential sinus infection causes include:

Allergic rhinitis / hay fever

A deviated septum

Small sinus openings

Bacterial infection

Fungal infection

Viral infection

Nasal polyps

What are the symptoms of sinusitis?

Acute and chronic sinusitis may cause or occur simultaneously with other symptoms or conditions including:

How is sinusitis treated?

Our sinus infection specialist will determine the best sinusitis treatment based on the underlying cause of your condition and whether you are suffering from acute sinusitis or chronic sinusitis. Conservative (nonsurgical) treatments are typically the first options explored.

Conservative treatment options for sinusitis may include:

Antibiotics (for bacterial sinusitis)

Nasal decongestant sprays

Allergy medications

Topical nasal steroid sprays

Nasal saline sprays

When sinusitis is chronic and/or caused by an anatomical problem in the nose, such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps, more involved sinusitis treatment may be necessary in order to achieve long-term relief. To relieve chronic sinusitis, otolaryngologist and sinus infection specialist Dr. Keith Kowal can perform various sinus surgery procedures. In some cases, a minimally invasive procedure called Balloon Sinuplasty (balloon sinus surgery) can be performed, which enlarges blocked sinus openings and clears out sinus cavities using a small balloon catheter device.

If you are experiencing sinusitis or chronic sinusitis, a comprehensive evaluation is your first step to finding relief. Experienced ear, nose & throat physician, Dr. Keith Kowal, provides the best chronic sinusitis treatment for patients of all ages in Baldwin County and surrounding areas. Start breathing better and living better by scheduling an appointment with a sinusitis doctor at ENT Centers of Excellence today. Get started by filling out the appointment request form on this page or calling our office at 251.943.1117.

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